DHEC: Rabid raccoon in Richland County exposes two dogs

SOURCE: DHEC PRESS RELEASE

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO)–State health officials say a raccoon found near Woodway Lane and South Chelsea Road, in Columbia, has tested positive for rabies.

According to DHEC, no people are known to have been exposed.

DHEC says two dogs were exposed and will be quarantined as required in the South Carolina Rabies Control Act.

State health officials say the raccoon was submitted to DHEC’s lab for testing on December 5, 2023, and was confirmed to have rabies on December 6, 2023.

If you believe you, someone you know or your pets have come in contact with this raccoon or another animal that potentially has rabies, please call DHEC’s Public Health Columbia office at (803) 896-0620 during normal business hours (8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday) or after hours and on holidays at (888) 847-0902 (Select Option 2).

Please report all animal bites, scratches and exposures to potentially rabid animals to DHEC, ask officials.